Name: Siddharth Chunduri
Place of Birth: Santharavuru, Andhra, India
Date of Birth: 20 August, 1989
At TU/e from: August 2010-August 2012, for an Embedded Systems master program.
Current position: Software engineer

What do you do in your current position and was it difficult to find a job?
I am a software engineer at ICT automation making Python software for ASML-based projects. Initially, I wanted to be a video and image processing researcher but I graduated in a bad time for that. The economy was suffering, so although I tried my best, in the end I decided to compromise and head in a new direction. The Internet was my job hunting ally . I would send my resume to companies’ HR departments directly. The best way to apply, in my opinion, is through the company website. I wouldn’t say it was difficult, as Eindhoven is a hi-tech area, but your degree should match the job you apply for. It's also important you tailor your CV to the company you are applying with, and it helps if you’re flexible rather than stubborn.

How do you reflect on your time at TU/e?
I came to the Netherlands because I didn't want to do what most Indians do, which is leaving for the US or the UK. I chose TU/e specifically because of its good ranking at the time. In hindsight I feel there was a large divide between international and local students. Dutch students and international students were separate social entities. Still, I am thankful to TU/e, since I’ve matured in leaps and bounds. Compared to the pressure of studying at TU/e, the pressure at work is peanuts.

Will you stay in the Netherlands?
Why (not)? I have been in the Netherlands for four years now. I don't intend to leave. Although the Netherlands can be quite boring, whenever I feel bored I take a vacation. When I’m here I treasure the peace, the weather, nature, the tranquility, and the non-judgmental attitude of Dutch society.

What advice would you give current students?
If you are serious about a career in industry rather than research, make sure your thesis links to that, and try to write it with a reputable company. I did mine at Philips and that definitely helped me getting several interview call backs. Know that staying in the Netherlands is not for everyone. After graduation, you your social circles will shrink. The acquaintances you make after university will most likely be your colleagues. There is a huge difference between university friends and colleagues. So treasure the former. Finally, take your Dutch language course at university seriously. I’ve come to realize Dutch was more important than many of the regular courses I followed.